A Week

 We were entertained by our grandsons Paxton and Everett for the past 5 days with their visit to our home. Did a lot of fun stuff including multiple trips to the 

zoo, Troy nature center, and Innovation Hills in Rochester Hills.  Visited the redone Royal Oak area behind the library and got a smoothie at the Farmers Market.  Judy bested my in parallel parking which was no surprise. When she said "there's a spot!" my anxiety went thru the roof, never really mastering the needed technique.  Finally, she threw me out of the car saying "I'll do it" I am not really embarrassed as my talents lie elsewhere.

Took the top shot with Harry in front of Rogers Elementary down the street.  Me and the boys took him for his first walk of the day most days.  Everett was amazed that the school was the home of the Rogers Raccoons, not getting the concept of a mascot.  

The trip to Innovation Hills was an interesting place to observe parents interacting with their kids and the differing behavior girls vs. boys.  For the most part the boys are ripping around pushing each other and running between different climbing structures.

Girls on the other hand were in smallish groups under the play structures having a discussion, much quieter than their male counterparts.  The moms in charge were the ultimate in preparedness.  The strollers were like tanks loaded for battle with a variety of water bottles hanging from and snack bags, jackets, hand sanitizer and wipes, probably bandaids too I couldn't see.  While their offspring were having a great time, they were miserable and stressed keeping track of their whereabouts.  All had backpacks most likely filled with extra clothes. No judgement here only observations. 

Judy and boys pictured at the Troy Nature center where we peered into the foliage to find a couple of deer resting.  The boys see lots of them near their house which is on the banks of the Thornapple River.  

Took cousin Eli on the first trip to the zoo.  He does a great job helping out with these little guys.  Marie declined to go.  She was too cool for school.

It was wonderful to spend time with these guys in that we don't see them that often due to proximity.  

A morning and evening routine was developed during the week.  My story reading skills improved and we figured out what they liked to eat.  We ran them pretty good on most days so the bed times were uneventful and they crashed early.  

Took them down to see some of the residents.  Paxton had a long conversation on the phone with Mike Faff.  Joyce was particularly taken with quiet Everett.  He reminded her of one of her quieter sons. 

Back to PF this morning followed by my annual physical.  Feel pretty good aside from some structural aches and pains.  Get tired of worrying about the reports that come back.  My doc is a good listener and a does much more than some of the former docs.  

Well breakfast is done.  It's been a longer time since entries are made in the blog.  Too much happening too soon in the morning and was too tired at night to write. 

Thats it

all for now

stay safe